Saving Your Household from Deployment Crisis

Families of service members and veterans can face considerable challenges and psychological health consequences during each period of the deployment cycle. It may even be fitting to refer to these family members as the “unsung heroes” for facing the diverse stressors seen by the family members of service men and women.

The Entire Household Faces its Own War

It can feel as though the majority of support and intervention is focused largely upon military personnel, leaving little emphasis on the needs of family members who have to live through an extended period of worrying during times of deployment. It can be challenging for a spouse or partner to face each day with uncertainty, perhaps even wondering if or when a loved one is coming back. Children, regardless of age, may adapt to a setup where one parent is absent and live with the inevitable changes caused by that absence. Family members may feel that it is expected to welcome the return of the deployed family member months or even years later, trying to hide any hint of physical, emotional or psychological distress.

The Impact of Combat Deployment in the Family

Medical records of more than 250,000 Army spouses have revealed that soldier deployment correlates with elevated rates of diagnosis and treatment for depression, anxiety, sleeping problem and adjustment disorders. These findings may not seem surprising due to the various stressors military spouses take on each day while their partner is on the battlefield. These may include ambiguous feeling associated with the prolonged absence, parenting stress, and/or financial concerns.

Studies have shown that children with a deployed parent may suffer more from stress as compared to other children. This may be due to the difficulties children could be facing in adjusting to family situations that involve long deployment with shorter breaks in between. School-aged children can be affected, particularly by frequent transitions, as they may be trying to establish social networks both in school and in the community. The incidences of emotional and behavioral problems also tends to be higher with children of deployed parents when compared to national averages.

Taking up Arms with an Ally

As a parent, you may be struggling with the difficulties wrought by military life in your family. You may be finding it difficult to keep the monstrous worries to yourself. While it can be important to be strong for your children’s welfare, you also deserve support in confronting your own emotional and psychological enemies.

For that, you could need a strong ally to win. Let a licensed, independently contracted counselor with Carolina Counseling Services help you face the challenges of military life. Call now to request an appointment.

Confidential / Private Sessions

Carolina Counseling Services contracts independently with Licensed professional counselors/therapists/psychologists who provide a friendly, relaxed atmosphere to everyone. Carolina Counseling Services independently contracted therapists assist individuals, couples, families, and children with counseling services that will help put your life back on track. Working with both non military and military is a joy and the therapist you choose will be happy to assist you whether you are a "civilian", or if you are a dependent or retiree.

Counseling and Therapy are often used interchangeably in our English language. The same is true for Counselor and Therapist. It really doesn't matter which word you use. When you need help, it is best to talk to someone who is not only objective, but who has had lots of experience helping others who have been in similar situations as yourself. A friendly Counselor or Therapist who is trained, licensed and experienced is the one who can assist the most. You don't have to figure it out alone. All independently contracted therapists are licensed, friendly professionals. Call to schedule your appt now!

If we can't help you, we will be happy to refer you to someone who can. We look forward to assisting you!!!.